‘Yesu Adi Nkunim’: Burial service held for Gospel musician KODA

Celebrated gospel musician and producer Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, widely known as KODA, was laid to rest today in a service held at the Kingsway International Christian Church (KICC) in Accra.

The solemn, all-white burial service was attended by prominent figures from the gospel music industry, including Elder Dr. Kwesi Mireku, Nii Okai, Joe Mettle, Eugene Zuta, Cwesi Oteng, SP Kofi Sarpong, and others.

During the sermon, Rev. Andy Yawson, Senior Pastor of KICC, addressed the difficulty of understanding why bad things happen to good people, acknowledging that only God holds the answers.

“More often than not, we have these things happening. We ask questions but cannot find answers. There are some who go to the extent of losing their faith because of some of these questions. You are not the only one who has questions. I have too,” he said.

“But why do we have these questions? I serve a God who said in his word in Isaiah 55:9, ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts,'” he added.

Rev. Yawson encouraged the audience, reminding them that even in moments when they feel distant from God, He remains ever-present.

He also paid tribute to KODA’s unwavering Christian values and integrity.

“We knew the value he brought to the faith. And I have heard so many things said about KODA. I didn’t hear one I would like to add. I have always seen him as an activist. Because he was an activist. In a very subtle way, he spoke and said things that could not be said.”

Throughout the service, musicians present took turns ministering with uplifting songs, as some mourners wept while others rejoiced.

KODA, an award-winning gospel artist, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the age of 45, after a prolonged illness.

He was known for his popular multi-genre gospel hits, including “Nkwa Abodoo,” “Guide Me Thou Jehovah,” “Yesu Adi Nkunim,” “Nsem Pii,” and “Hossana.” He also collaborated with renowned artists such as Joe Mettle, Nacee, Nii Okai, Joyful Way Incorporated, Calvis Hammond, and Francis Osei.

In addition to his music career, KODA founded KODED Studios, a production company that has produced numerous gospel tracks for both established and emerging artists.

An alumnus of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), KODA began his music career there, eventually leading the university’s mass choir as its music director. He was deeply admired for his musical versatility, strong Christian faith, and kind personality.

KODA is survived by his wife, Ewurama, who is also a music minister, and their three children.